Source: New York City, Office of the Mayor

Mental health professionals often challenge conventional understandings of violence, reframing the conversation using frameworks that account for PTSD, the impact of environmental racism and lack of access as factors that may cause, and perpetuate, harmful behaviors.

After helping to find Sisters Thrive, New York First Lady Chirlane McCray recently announced Brothers Thrive; both initiatives are aimed to promote mental health literacy in the black community. Mental Health First Aid is providing the training for these programs.

McCray’s mental health wellness, support and outreach efforts are noteworthy, widely recognized as a first for major city.

This is a story about the Street Outreach, Support Services and Jobs strategies of the Partnership for Safe and Peaceful Communities.